The lawmaker, a retired Army officer, made frequent media appearances both during and after his time representing a Florida district in Congress. He lost a close battle for re-election in 2012.

West will appear at the annual banquet on Feb. 9, and his speech was arranged by Rep. Aaron Schock, R-Peoria, who helped him in his 2010 campaign.

The event begins at 6 p.m. and tickets cost $70 apiece. For more details on the event and its location, or to purchase tickets — of which a very limited number remain — call 589-0966 or email cshonrn1@sbcglobal.net.